5 Haute Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

The long Memorial Day weekend is approaching, and you’ve got some time on your hands. Why not utilize it the best way possible by taking an extended vacation in one of the lovely local spots that SoCal has to offer? Here our picks for five haute weekend getaways where you can get some R&R in haute style.

1
Palm Springs

The much buzzed-about Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage has finally opened its doors in the Palm Desert. This chic resort offers unparalleled panoramic views from a serene hilltop location, a pristine indigenous landscape, integrated water features, and brilliant fire and light attractions complement the resort's 244 spacious guest rooms. Nearly all feature large patios and terraces, some with their own fire pits and views of the dramatic mountain ranges. Make sure to grab a spa treatment for the ultimate relaxation at the 25,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa, Rancho Mirage, which features 15 opulent treatment rooms, many with private terraces, a complete Fitness Center, movement studios, private whirlpools, rain and Vichy showers, eucalyptus-infused steam and sauna facilities, an outdoor meditation mesa, and an outdoor co-ed whirlpool with waterfall and mountain views.

2
Santa Barbara

There are few hotels with views as lovely as the ocean views at The Biltmore: the Four Seasons Santa Barbara. This haute hotel is elegance personified. This Four Seasons property is built in the area’s classic Spanish Colonial style and includes 207 luxury oceanfront guest rooms and suites as well as twelve cottages. We recommend you take advantage of the glittering Pacific Ocean view and book a stay at the Ty Warner Cottage. This three-bedroom, four-bathroom 2,000 square foot space, named after “Beanie Baby Billionaire” Ty Warner, offers heated bathroom floors, a therapeutic rain shower and its own backyard, among other luxuries. A stay in one of the Biltmore’s best rooms also includes complimentary access to the tony Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club, a private reserve tour and wine blending and access to its award-winning spa.

3
Las Vegas

The Cromwell literally just opened this week in Sin City, and if you're ready to play while you stay, this is the place for you. This luxe boutique hotel is home to celebrity chef Giada de Laurentiis's first restaurant, Giada's, as well as Drai's 3-in-1 venue. The luxurious 65,000-square-foot Drai’s Beach Club · Nightclub offers both an indoor and outdoor rooftop party experience, while Drai's After Dark is certain to be THE it club for late night partygoers craving see-and-be-seen action.

4
Catalina Island

The sleepy island town of Avalon on Catalina island is the perfect place to eat, drink and be merry - and do little else. For those craving a true "get away from it all" experience, this is the place for you. Dine at the upscale Avalon Grille or sip champagne, down oysters and watch the sun set from a prime location right over the ocean at Bluewater Avalon, relax in one of the Presidential Cabanas at the Descanso Beach Club, where you won’t have to lift even a finger: hosts will cater to your every whim and play 18 holes at the Catalina Golf Club for a day of fun in the sun on Catalina. Stay at the casually upscale Hotel Metrople, a sweet stay just steps away from the beach.

5
La Jolla

What better way to spend Memorial Day than by playing one of the best golf courses in the country? We hope you've booked in advance, as the South Course - the site of the 2008 US Open - is so coveted that it's nearly impossible to make a reservation. Whether or not you can book some time on the green, you'll definitely love the Lodge at Torrey Pines, located in the stunning Orange County town of La Jolla. Beautiful fireplaces in the lobby and turn-of-the-century guest suites give that warm glow to help you relax in style.